Manoj Soni, the former chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), has made headlines with his recent decision to step down from his esteemed position. He has dedicated himself to the Anoopam Mission, a spiritual order within the Swaminarayan sect. This shift towards monkhood has captured public interest due to its unexpected nature.
Born in Vadodara, Soni faced numerous challenges during his childhood. After the loss of his father, he took on the responsibility of supporting his family by selling incense sticks on the streets of Mumbai. Despite these hardships, he pursued education relentlessly, achieving both an MA and a PhD in Political Science. His academic career included teaching international relations and holding significant administrative roles, culminating in his appointment as Vice-Chancellor of MS University and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University.
Soni joined the UPSC in 2017 and became its chairman in 2023. His reputation was built on a meticulous and sometimes intimidating interviewing style, earning him respect and trepidation among civil service aspirants. His interviews were characterized by a keen attention to detail and a broad scoring range, establishing him as a formidable presence in the selection process.
Despite his achievements in public service, Soni maintained a profound connection to the Anoopam Mission, which he was introduced to as a child. The mission offered him financial aid, emotional support, and spiritual guidance that significantly influenced his worldview. In 2020, he took deeksha (initiation) as a monk, formally committing to the mission’s ideals of selfless service.
Soni’s resignation from the UPSC chairmanship stemmed from his desire to devote himself entirely to the Anoopam Mission. While speculation about his possible leadership role within the mission has circulated, both Soni's family and a mission spokesperson have clarified that he is not slated to succeed the current leader.
The journey of Manoj Soni from academia to monkhood illustrates the significant role spirituality has played in his life. His choice to embrace a monastic lifestyle after holding a prestigious public office reveals the enduring power of a deeper calling. Soni’s life serves as a compelling reminder that true success transcends professional accomplishments, focusing instead on inner fulfillment and serving others.
Q1. Who is Manoj Soni?
Answer: Manoj Soni is a former chairman of the UPSC, known for his academic achievements and recent transition to monkhood within the Anoopam Mission.
Q2. What is the Anoopam Mission?
Answer: The Anoopam Mission is a spiritual organization within the Swaminarayan sect, focusing on selfless service and spiritual guidance.
Q3. Why did Manoj Soni resign from UPSC?
Answer: Manoj Soni resigned to fully commit himself to the Anoopam Mission and pursue his spiritual journey.
Q4. What does deeksha mean?
Answer: Deeksha refers to initiation into a spiritual order, marking a commitment to the path of selfless service and spiritual discipline.
Q5. How did Soni's early life influence his career?
Answer: Soni's early struggles, including supporting his family, instilled a strong work ethic and determination that propelled his academic and professional success.
Question 1: What is the primary focus of the Anoopam Mission?
A) Educational reform
B) Selfless service
C) Political leadership
D) Economic development
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which degree did Manoj Soni earn in Political Science?
A) Bachelor's
B) Master's
C) Doctorate
D) All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Question 3: In which year did Manoj Soni become the UPSC chairman?
A) 2017
B) 2020
C) 2023
D) 2025
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What does deeksha signify in spiritual terms?
A) Public service
B) Financial support
C) Spiritual initiation
D) Academic achievement
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What was a notable aspect of Soni's interview style at UPSC?
A) Casual approach
B) Strict adherence to rules
C) Focus on detail
D) Emphasis on speed
Correct Answer: C
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